WCU student dies in fall from rooftop in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — A 19-year-old West Chester University student fell to her death Wednesday while attending a rooftop party during a spring celebration near Temple University.

West Chester University authorities confirmed that Ali Fausnaught, a Lancaster County native, was with friends when she accidentally fell from a three-story rooftop around 5:30 p.m. in the 1900 block of North 19th Avenue, just west of Temple University’s North Philadelphia campus.

“We were very saddened to learn last evening that one of our students, Ms. Ali Fausnaught, was tragically killed after an accidental fall from a third-story rooftop while visiting friends at Temple University,” said Matthew J. Bricketto, vice president of student affairs at West Chester.

Officials said Fausnaught was a native of Brownstown in Lancaster County. She was a 2012 graduate of Conestoga Valley High School. She recently transferred to West Chester from the University of South Carolina and was majoring in psychology.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the entire Fausnaught Family, and all of Ali’s friends and classmates during this very difficult time,” Bricketto said. “Our student affairs staff, as well as faculty in the counseling center, will be available to assist any students as they learn of this sad news today and in the days ahead.”

According to reports, Fausnaught fell from the rooftop and landed in an alley some 40 feet below. She was rushed to Temple University Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

At least eight people were taken into custody and interviewed by Philadelphia detectives, but preliminary reports indicated the fall appeared accidental.

Just Wednesday, West Chester Borough Council unanimously voted to propose an ordinance that would restrict the occupancy of roof areas not specifically designed for that purpose. If passed, the violation would be classified as a nuisance offense and would be punishable with a fine.